South Africa won the U20 Africa Cup of Nations on Sunday after beating fellow finalists Morocco 1-nil at the Cairo International Stadium.
Nigeria won the bronze medal after a penalty shootout victory over Egypt (1-1) 4-1 on penalties.
It was historic for the Amajita, who lifted the U20 continental trophy for the very first time in their history. In a tight and tactical final, it was Gomolemo Kekana who gave his team the lead in the second half with a splendid curling shot from outside the box.
The goal was validated after the use of video assistance (VAR), giving South Africa a title 28 years after their last appearance in the final.
Dominant in the first half, Morocco – undefeated in the competition until then – failed to capitalise on their chances against a well-drilled South African defense.
Earlier in the day, Nigeria secured third place in the tournament.
Trailing in the third minute thanks to a goal from Osama Omar for Egypt, the Nigerians responded in the second half thanks to Bidemi Amole’s equaliser.
More accurate in penalty shootouts, the Flying Eagles won 4-1, earning their 14th medal in the history of the competition, a record that confirms their status as a continental benchmark for youth football.
South Africa lead Africa into the next U20 World Cup in Chile.
SS/te/Sf/fss/as/APA